To honor and show appreciation for those who have risked their lives in the line of duty, the American people observe Veterans Day. As well, it is a time to remember that, in worldly affairs, war is a way of life. Interestingly, this is also how the Lord describes the relationship between good and evil. The Apostle Peter gave this admonition:“Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul (I Peter 2:11).” The Apostle Paul gave a sober warning concerning this enemy when he wrote: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12).
Like any good soldier who goes to war, the Christian must have his or her mind trained and ready for action. In II Timothy 2:3-4, Paul wrote“Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.” Victory is the goal of the earthly and Christian soldier, and permits nothing to step in the way to diminish this goal. The Christian’s enemy has very clever ways of distracting soldiers. The cares of this world can drain the energy needed for battle; if victory is to be achieved, the soldier must make certain that Christ is always at the forefront of thoughts and actions.
The seriousness of this battle is indicated by the armor that is given to the Christian. As Paul wrote to the Ephesians about the enemy, he admonished them to put on the armor given by God Himself. The armor of truth, righteousness, gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the word will prepare for the weapons of the enemy (see Ephesians 6:13-17). Every piece of the armor is essential for survival
Are you a soldier of the cross? Unlike the wars of this earth, this cosmic battle’s winner is already known. The Lord has defeated the powers of evil and Satan’s fate is assured in the eternal flames of Hell. Personal victory can only be achieved by first becoming a part of the Lord’s army. It requires faithful dedication and trust, even when it appears the foe may have the upper hand. Far more than a single day of honoring veterans in His army, the Lord promises a day of reward that will never end. Are you Thriving with God?
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